Airbnbs have become so wide-spread and frequently used that the idea seems commonplace to us. And yet, this innovation was born in the not too distant past. The founders of Airbnb include Brian Chesky, Nathan Blecharczyk, and Joe Gebbia. It started when Gebbia and Chesky, rooming together, couldn’t afford the month’s rent. So they made their loft into a bed and breakfast. As absurd as it sounds, they bought a couple of air mattresses and allowed guests to stay for $80 a night. Soon they realized they had a massive opportunity on their hands and they set about to put it into action. Through much rejection, planning, and re-planning, they got their idea off the ground. Time after time, investors struggled to see how air mattresses on the floors of people’s houses could make a profit, but, eventually, one investor saw the potential. And now, several years down the line, it’s a highly successful business. However, the journey to success doesn’t come without a few bumps in the road. They’ve faced the struggles of liabilities as guests trash the houses they stay in and landlords restrict renters from using their homes as airbnbs. However, they have addressed the problems as they occur and have pivoted when necessary; thus, allowing the business to survive and even thrive.
I find this company inspiring because its a rather simple idea and yet strikingly innovative. No one had ever done anything quite like it, and now they’ve created a booming, vibrant industry. Furthermore, I greatly admire their perseverance and passion in the project. Despite the countless obstacles and rejections, they persisted. This displays a truly remarkable innovative spirit. Furthermore, Airbnb in specific, highlights the importance of teamwork and group collaboration when it comes to innovation. These three men each brought something unique to the table and together they created a business that combines practicality with adventure, and accessibility/good rates with aesthetics and experience. Overall, there is much to be learned from a company like Airbnb.
This backstory is very unique! It’s amazing how they started with a struggle; They were just sleeping on air mattresses in a small loft and made a business out of this experience. The founders realized that many people want a cheap place to stay also, and even the air mattresses and tightness of the loft didn’t bother them. It is cool that they took their struggles and created something that is so influential today.